The National Science Foundation
(NSF) and the Plant Genome Research Program are pleased to announce a new
funding opportunity for postdoctoral associates under the auspices of the NPGI
(National Plant Genome Initiative) and co-sponsored by the NSF, USDA
Agriculture Research Service and Department of Energy. The focus will be
plant genomics with an emphasis on interdisciplinary training in quantitative
genetics, modern breeding approaches, and bioinformatics. The
purpose of these fellowships is to provide postdoctoral training opportunities
that target basic research in plant improvement and associated sciences such as
plant physiology and pathology, quantitative genetics, and computational
biology.

These fellowships are designed to provide active mentoring of the Fellows by the sponsoring scientists who will benefit from having these talented young scientists in their research groups. The research and training plan of each fellowship must address important scientific questions within the scope of the goals of the NPGI and the specific guidelines in this Solicitation. Opportunities to participate in research in USDA ARS laboratories and the DOE's Joint Genome Institute will be possible as part of the training activities for the postdoctoral fellows. International training may be included in the research plan provided that it is relevant to the goals of the NPGI and the within the scope of this Program.Applicants with strong backgrounds in a single disciplinary area
may consider expanding their expertise with research in associated fields.

NSF anticipates up to $4 million per year for NPGI fellowships in fiscal years 2012, 2013, and 2014 for 36-month fellowships.

Successful applicants will be supported by either NSF or USDA-ARS. Depending on the focus and location of the proposed research, up to five successful applicants may be supported by USDA-ARS fellowships. Applicants selected for support by USDA-ARS will be contacted directly by NSF and informed of their selection for these additional fellowship opportunities. They will be instructed to withdraw their application to this Program as "funded elsewhere" and USDA-ARS will then initiate the appointment of these fellows directly. All other awards will be made by NSF.

Other competitive areas for this fellowship are Broadening Participation in Biology and Intersections of Biology and Mathematical and Physical Sciences.